Easy Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon Recipe

Name: Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup green lentils; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons cumin seeds; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

April 9, 2025

Updated:

April 9, 2025

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Imagine the aroma of warm spices wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a delicious bowl of lentil soup with cumin and lemon. The earthy scent of cumin blends beautifully with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating an irresistible dish that warms both body and soul. It’s the kind of meal that begs for cozy blankets, rainy days, and maybe even a good book or two.

This recipe isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about creating memories. I still recall the first time I made this lentil soup during a family gathering. Everyone gathered around the table, spoonfuls of vibrant green goodness in hand, their faces lighting up at each taste. You could almost hear the collective “mmm” echo around the room as we fell in love all over again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This lentil soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will leave you wanting more
The bright colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
Versatile enough to enjoy on its own or paired with crusty bread, it fits any occasion perfectly

It’s funny how something so simple can bring everyone together. My friends often joke that if there’s a pot of this soup on the stove, they’ll show up unannounced for dinner!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green Lentils: These hold their shape beautifully when cooked and provide a hearty base for your soup.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to your dish; choose fresh ones for best flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give an aromatic kick; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Cumin Seeds: Toast them lightly to release their natural oils for deeper flavor in your soup.
Carrots: Diced carrots contribute sweetness and color; pick firm ones for optimal crunch.
Celery: Chopped celery adds texture; use fresh stalks for the best crunch.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens every bite; it’s the secret ingredient to elevate your soup.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté your vegetables—it’s heart-healthy and delicious!
Salt & Pepper: Season generously throughout cooking to enhance all those fabulous flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by gathering your ingredients and tools—a large pot or Dutch oven works wonders here.

Sauté Your Aromatics : Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant.

Add Garlic and Spices : Toss in minced garlic along with toasted cumin seeds. Stir constantly until aromatic—this should take about 1 minute.

Add Vegetables : Mix in diced carrots and celery; sauté them until they soften slightly—around 5 minutes should do the trick.

Add Lentils and Broth : Stir in rinsed green lentils followed by vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat.

Simmer Away : Cover your pot partially and let it simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.

Add Lemon Juice : Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.

Enjoy this delightful lentil soup warm or store leftovers in an airtight container—it tastes even better the next day!

You Must Know

Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon is a delightful dish bursting with flavor and nutrition
The combination of spices creates a warm, aromatic experience that will have your taste buds dancing
Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a cozy meal, it’s easy to make and even easier to love

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic; this builds a rich flavor base before adding lentils and broth.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables or add protein like chicken or sausage for a hearty twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your lentils cook evenly, rinse them thoroughly before adding to your soup pot
Adjust seasoning as necessary, tasting along the way for a balanced flavor
Don’t skip the lemon juice at the end; it brightens every bite!

Sometimes, I still remember the first time I made this soup for friends, and their faces lit up with joy after the first spoonful.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of lentils are best for soup?

Green or brown lentils hold their shape well during cooking, perfect for soup.

Can I make Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.

How can I thicken my lentil soup?

Blend a portion of the soup, then stir it back in for creamy texture.

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